Houston connection helps lead way

On a disappointing night for the MLS All-Stars, performance-wise, Houston fans were treated to an impressive display by Dynamo players Brad Davis and Brian Ching and former player Dwayne De Rosario.

“It was a great night for Houston soccer and for Dynamo players past and present,” All-Star assistant coach and Dynamo head coach Dominic Kinnear said. “Brian’s goal was typical of him, and Dwayne’s goal was typical of him. Brad [Davis] also had some chances there as well.”

Ching talked extensively after the game about how playing with his fellow All-Stars was the highlight of his night. However, the goal he scored in the 64th minute might just be one of the highlights of his career.

“To score a goal against probably one of the best teams in the world is something I will always remember, especially doing it here in front of our home crowd,” Ching said. “It was fantastic.”

Ching opened the scoring for the All-Stars, but it was his assist to former teammate Dwayne De Rosario that brought back fond memories of Houston’s championship teams of years past.

“It was a great ball by Brian Ching, and it was great to be part of that combination and getting to play with him again,” De Rosario said. “It couldn’t have worked out any better, other than me giving him [the ball on his goal].”

De Rosario’s goal was even more impressive considering that he flew into Houston early Wednesday morning after playing Tuesday night for Toronto FC. However, De Rosario enjoyed the day despite the travel.

“It’s nice to be back home, as I call Houston one of my homes,” said De Rosario, who played in Houston from 2006-08. “Houston is a great town that has great fan support. I was happy to be here, but it was a very long day for me just getting in this morning.”

Davis had two chances himself to score late, but couldn’t put one past Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar. Though he failed to score, Davis was happy to share the moment with both his current and former teammate.

“It’s good to see Dwayne — and in typical Dwayne fashion, in the spotlight, he gets another one,” Davis said. “I am happy for him and Brian, and with those guys having their roots here — it was a great night for the home crowd.”

Dwain Capodice is a contributor to MLSsoccer.com. Questions or comments can be sent via email to dwaincapodice@gmail.com